a series of muscle contractions that transports food down the digestive tract in a wave like fashion describes which of the following

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

1. What term describes a series of muscle contractions that transports food down the digestive tract in a wave-like fashion?

A. digestion
B. deglutition
C. defecation
D. peristalsis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term for the series of muscle contractions that move food down the digestive tract in a wave-like manner. This process helps propel food through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption. Digestion (Choice A) refers to the breakdown of food into smaller components, deglutition (Choice B) is the act of swallowing, and defecation (Choice C) is the elimination of waste from the body. Therefore, peristalsis is the most appropriate term to describe the described muscle contractions in the digestive system.

2. Which of the following is an example of a nonpolar solvent?

A. Water
B. Ethanol
C. Acetone
D. Hydrochloric acid

Correct answer: B

Rationale: - Water (option A) is a polar solvent due to its uneven distribution of charge, with the oxygen atom being partially negative and the hydrogen atoms being partially positive. - Ethanol (option B) is a nonpolar solvent because it has a symmetrical molecular structure that does not result in significant charge separation. - Acetone (option C) is a polar solvent as it contains a carbonyl group that results in a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. - Hydrochloric acid (option D) is a polar solvent due to the presence of the highly electronegative chlorine atom, which results in a partial negative charge.

3. What is the primary function of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in gene editing?

A. To amplify specific DNA sequences.
B. To cut DNA at specific locations.
C. To deliver genes into cells.
D. To sequence entire genomes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The CRISPR-Cas9 system is a powerful tool used in gene editing to precisely target and cut DNA at specific locations within the genome. This system consists of a guide RNA that directs the Cas9 enzyme to the desired DNA sequence, where it creates a double-strand break. This break can then be repaired by the cell's natural DNA repair mechanisms, allowing for the introduction of specific genetic modifications. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the primary function of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in gene editing. Amplifying DNA sequences, delivering genes into cells, and sequencing entire genomes are not the main functions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system, which is primarily focused on precise DNA cutting for targeted genetic modifications.

4. What is the process by which simple cells become highly specialized cells?

A. Cellular complication
B. Cellular specialization
C. Cellular differentiation
D. Cellular modification

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Cellular differentiation'. Cellular differentiation is the process by which simple cells become highly specialized cells. During cellular differentiation, cells acquire specific structures and functions that allow them to perform particular roles within an organism. This process involves the activation and silencing of specific genes, leading to the development of various cell types with distinct characteristics and functions. 'Cellular complication' (Choice A) is incorrect as it does not describe the specific process of cells becoming specialized. 'Cellular specialization' (Choice B) is not the most precise term for the process, as it does not capture the transformation from simple cells to specialized cells. 'Cellular modification' (Choice D) is incorrect as it is a vague term that does not specifically refer to the process of cellular specialization.

5. Which of the following structures acts like a funnel by delivering urine from the millions of collecting tubules to the ureters?

A. The renal pelvis
B. The renal cortex
C. The renal medulla
D. Bowman's capsule

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The renal pelvis. The renal pelvis serves as a reservoir for urine collected from the kidney's numerous collecting tubules, funneling it into the ureters for transport to the bladder. The renal cortex is the outer region of the kidney involved in filtration, while the renal medulla is the inner region responsible for concentrating urine. Bowman's capsule is part of the nephron and is involved in the initial filtration of blood in the kidney, not in funneling urine to the ureters.